Barriers in Sustainable Lean Supply Chain Management: Implementation in SMEs

Abstract

As the world undergoes significant transformations in various domains, including technology, energy supply and communication, the idea of sustainability has become a significant issue. This study investigates the barriers to Sustainable Lean Supply Chain (SLSC) management within Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and explores the structural interrelationships among these barriers. A comprehensive literature review was carried out to recognize critical elements relevant to the research topic, resulting in the identification of fifteen specific elements that account for 85% of the barriers in SLSC management. The DEMATEL method was used to evaluate the significance and influence levels of these factors. Furthermore, structured in-depth interviews were conducted with ten experts representing sectors that constitute 85% of the SMEs operating in Kayseri Organized Industrial Zone (OIZ), Turkey, including metal products, furniture, plastic packaging, construction materials, textiles and food. The findings reveal that strategies represent the most significant barrier to SLSC management in SMEs. The barriers were analyzed in two dimensions: influencing and influenced factors. The primary influencing factor identified was laws, standards, regulations, and legislation while the most significant influenced factor was found supply and suppliers. The study concludes with findings and actionable recommendations for practitioners and decision-makers.